How to clean moss from your roof

Moss on your roof may seem harmless, but over time, it can cause a large amount of damage by trapping moisture, leading to potential leaks and structural issues. Regular roof cleaning and moss removal not only improves the appearance of your home but also extends the lifespan of your roof tiles.

Therefore, in this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about cleaning moss off a roof, including safe and effective methods to keep your roof in top condition.

DPR Roofing Wakefield

Why is it important to clean moss off your roof?

Moss thrives in damp, shaded environments, making rooftops an ideal breeding ground. If left untreated, moss can:

• Retain moisture and cause roof tiles to deteriorate
• Block gutters, leading to water overflow and damage
• Reduce the efficiency of solar panels (if installed)
• Affect the overall curb appeal of your property

By learning how to clean moss off a roof properly, you can prevent these issues and maintain a healthy, long-lasting roof.

Rotban

The best methods for cleaning moss off a roof

1. Manual removal

The safest and most effective way to clean moss from a roof is by manually scraping it off using a stiff brush or a plastic scraper. Follow these steps:

• Use a sturdy ladder and ensure safety harnesses if necessary.
• Gently scrape the moss from the roof tiles, working downward to avoid lifting the shingles.
• Collect the removed moss to prevent it from clogging gutters or falling onto pathways.

2. Using a roof cleaning solution

For a deeper clean, applying a roof cleaning and moss removal solution can help prevent regrowth.

• Mix equal parts water and vinegar or use a specialized moss killer.
• Spray the solution evenly over the affected area.
• Leave it for 15–20 minutes before rinsing with a low-pressure hose.

Avoid using high-pressure washers, as they can damage roof tiles and lead to water infiltration.

3. Preventing moss regrowth

Once you've successfully cleaned moss off the roof, take preventive measures to stop it from returning:

• Trim overhanging branches to increase sunlight exposure.
• Install zinc or copper strips along the ridge of your roof—rainwater will carry the metal particles down, preventing moss growth.
• Keep gutters clean and free from debris to prevent moisture buildup.

Roundhay Roofing

How to clean moss from other surfaces

Moss isn’t just a problem for roofs—it can grow on concrete, tarmac, and resin driveways too. Here’s how to tackle moss in different areas:

• How to clean moss from concrete – Use a mixture of bleach and water (1:5 ratio) and scrub with a stiff brush. Rinse thoroughly.
• How to clean moss off tarmac – Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the surface; instead, use a diluted vinegar solution and scrub gently.
• How to clean moss from a resin drive – A pressure washer on a low setting combined with a mild detergent can effectively remove moss.
• How to clean driveway moss – Sprinkle baking soda over mossy areas, let it sit overnight, then brush and rinse away.

Daily Express

Regular cleaning of roof tiles of moss is essential to maintain the integrity of your home. Whether you choose to manually remove moss, use a cleaning solution, or invest in preventive measures, keeping your roof clear will help avoid costly repairs in the future.

However, if you’re unsure about how to clean moss off your roof safely, consider hiring a professional roof cleaning service to do the job efficiently.

By following these steps, you can keep your roof—and other surfaces—moss-free, ensuring a cleaner and more durable home exterior!

This Old House

If you’ve any queries about cleaning moss from your roof, or want any additional information about the products we sell at Howarth, please visit your local Howarth branch, or contact our customer services on 01472 907051.

You can also explore our range of landscaping products here, or you can even visit us in branch for more information.